PLANS to build a care home on the site of a former sweet factory have been given the go-ahead by Poole planners

Frontier Estates Ltd wants to develop the former Tangerine Sugar Confectionery factory site, Alder Road, Poole, into a 70-bed residential facility and 32 extra care apartments.

The factory closed in 2013 after more than 50 years, with the loss of around 75 jobs and currently, the existing 1960s buildings are empty.

At a meeting on Thursday members of the Borough of Poole planning committee approved plans to demolish the existing buildings and build a three-storey care home facility.

There would be two buildings on site - one for the 70-bed care home and the second would be for the 32 extra care apartments which would include a mixture of one and two-bedroom units.

A number of concerns were raised by residents who live nearby the site in relation to the height and size of the facility and concerns about loss of privacy.

Runton Road resident John Tuvey said: "I am happy that this much needed type of business is planning to be in the location but the size and effect it would have on the local residential community seems somewhat over the top."

Meanwhile, Runton Road neighbour Vivien Schuller agreed she was not opposed to the application in principle, but did voice concerns the about the building's height.

"I am out in my garden a lot during the summer months and I feel I will lose all my privacy and sunlight with windows and balconies overlooking me," she said.

Tangerine took over the former Parr's site in 2007. Family firm Parrs started in Parr Street, Lower Parkstone, in 1949, making crisps and chewing gum. After the factory burnt down the company relocated to Alder Road, Branksome, in the late 1960s.

Parrs was once the world's biggest manufacturer of lettered rock, employing more than 200 people and exporting as far afield as Australia and New Zealand.

Committee chairman Cllr Peter Pawlowski said: “The committee unanimously supported the scheme and commended the design, which will provide good quality ‘later life’ living accommodation.

"The changes will bring a significant improvement to the outlook of residents of Runton and other adjacent roads, in addition to much improved site access to Alder Road.”